García Plaza’s ‘untouchables’ at Sevilla

Sevilla, coached by García Plaza, head into the international break on a strong run: they sit fifth in LaLiga EA Sports with 13 points from 21, thanks to four wins (Rayo, Athletic, Valencia and Deportivo), one draw (Espanyol) and two losses (Atlético Madrid and Barcelona), according to MARCA.

The ones who never stop

In that setup stand García Plaza’s “untouchables”: Odysseas Vlachodimos and Gabriel Suazo, plus Juan Iglesias and Agoumé, have all played every minute possible so far. MARCA also notes that Iglesias was the star in the win against Valencia, scoring the only goal.

The next stretch will test the group’s rhythm. When LaLiga resumes, Sevilla will face two consecutive away games (Levante and Real Madrid) before hosting Osasuna at the Sánchez-Pizjuán to finish October. García Plaza, as MARCA puts it, will closely monitor players called up for internationals and hopes to avoid the feared “FIFA virus”.

Key roles and stats

MARCA reminds readers that Sevilla re-secured Odysseas on loan from Newcastle this summer. The goalkeeper has conceded nine goals and kept two clean sheets (against Valencia and Deportivo). With the full-backs, Suazo—now the captain—and Juan Iglesias are the benchmarks, while Agoumé has been performing exceptionally well, with MARCA adding that Fofana’s arrival has boosted the French midfielder.

Rotation is also on the agenda. After the four who have played everything, the next most-used players are Miguel Sierra, Castrín and Kike Salas. García Plaza’s quote, as reported by MARCA, is clear: the Trofeo Antonio Puerta “will help us give minutes to those who have had less playing time.” Sevilla then take on Aston Villa with Unai Emery on Friday, October 2.